Instructional Aide - Immediate Start

Job Description

Secure Your Role for the 2026–2027 School Year!
\n We're hiring now! Zen Educate is looking for Para Educators. If you're passionate about supporting students with special needs and want a role where you can make a real impact, this could be your next step. Now’s your chance to get set up for success and be ready to create strong bonds and make a lasting impact.
\n Ready to get started? Connect with a recruiter today to feel the difference you can make.

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About Zen Educate
\n Zen Educate connects schools with passionate, high-quality educators through a simple and transparent hiring process. We partner with public and charter schools to help them find the right staff, while making it easier for educators to discover roles that fit their skills, preferences, and career goals. Our mission is to create better outcomes for students by supporting the educators who make it happen, through smarter matching, fairer pay, and ongoing support.

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As an Instructional Aide, you’ll work closely with classroom teachers to support K–12 students with autism and behavioral needs. You’ll provide one-on-one and small group assistance, helping implement behavior plans and create a positive, structured learning environment where every student can thrive.

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Key Responsibilities:
\n -Behavioral Support: Implement Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) or Individualized Education Plan (IEPs)
\n -Individualized Support: Provide one-on-one or small group support using positive reinforcement and de-escalation strategies to promote self-regulation, social-emotional skills, and engagement.
\n -Classroom Assistance: Collaborate with teachers to maintain a positive, inclusive learning environment and encourage student participation.
\n -Communication: Work closely with teachers, parents, and staff to ensure consistent and effective support for students.
\n -Personal Care: Support with personal care or hygiene as needed, including toileting, feeding, and dressing.

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Required Qualifications/Experience:
\n -High School Diploma
\n -Experience supporting individuals with Special Educational Needs
\n -Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
\n -Ability to stay calm and patient in challenging situations
\n -English proficiency
\n -U.S. work authorization (Zen Educate cannot provide sponsorship for an employment visa or relocation assistance at this time)

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• Candidates must be 18 years or older to apply
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Physical Requirements:

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• Comfortable being on your feet and moving around the classroom throughout the day
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• Able to lift up to 20 lbs and safely assist students when needed (kneeling, bending, quick response)
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• Additional physical requirements may be requested during your application process
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Preferred Qualifications:
\n -Experience in Special Education, particularly with moderate to severe behaviors, ABA Therapy, Behaviour Technician Experience or AAC Devices
\n -Knowledge of behavioral intervention strategies
\n -CPR and First Aid
\n -CPI or Pro Act Training

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Salary
\n Pay: $22 - $26 per hour, paid weekly.
\n Schedule: Monday to Friday, within hours of 7:30 am - 3:00/4:30 pm (no weekend work).
\n 25-30 hours per week for full time roles

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Benefits and other offerings

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• Weekly pay by direct deposit, with paper check available on request
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• Professional development, including in-app training, paid role-specific certifications where applicable, and additional development opportunities depending on role and location
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• Paid sick leave in accordance with applicable state and local law
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• Medical, dental, and vision insurance available when eligibility requirements are met, which includes working more than 1,560 hours in a 12 month period.
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• 401(k) retirement plan with no employer match available when eligibility requirements are met, which includes working more than 1,000 hours in a 12 month period or more than 500 hours/year in a 24 month period.
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Don’t wait! Apply and connect with a recruiter today and take the first step toward your future in education.

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Ref: #OCTAZA-Nov26